Police Explorers Program

Red Oak Police Department Explorer Post #1132

​The Police Exploring Program is an official program of the Red Oak Police Department, designed by Learning for Life (a subsidiary of the Boy Scouts of America) to provide young adults who may be interested in a career in law enforcement with a comprehensive program of training, competition, service and practical experiences. It is through such activities that Explorers are able to broaden their understanding and knowledge of the law enforcement profession in general and learn the challenges and rewards of providing police services in their own community. A few of our alumni have successfully achieved careers in Law Enforcement. ​

​What do Explorers do?

​Explorers attend regular meetings and participate in training and practical hands-on activities provided by a dedicated cadre of law enforcement professionals and adult volunteers. After completing basic training, Explorers are invited to participate in our Ride-Along program, where they can observe firsthand patrol operations and community policing. Explorers also assist in such areas as crime prevention, traffic/crowd control, record keeping, and telecommunications. Explorers are trained in the use of the radio, in car computer and emergency equipment and routinely operate them during a ride along. These forms of assistance are always conducted under the supervision of law enforcement officers and serve to demonstrate that Explorers can be beneficial to the agency and the community.
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​When are the meetings?

​Who are the advisors?

​The advisors are police officers and other volunteers and employees of the Red Oak Police Department. Advisor training is provided by Learning for Life. ​​

Can girls join?

​Absolutely! Young women have always been a part of the Red Oak Police Department Explorer Program and share equal responsibilities in the program. ​​

What does it cost?

​Uniforms, duty belts, handcuffs and a training weapon are provided. Donations in exchange for services such as traffic and crowd control cover ALL travel expenses for state and national conferences and events. ​​

Is it all work?

​The social aspect of the Explorer program is as important to us as the professional services we provide. Explorers may participate in a wide variety of trips and activities throughout the year. One such activity is an annual trip to Group Dynamix for all day team building exercises and a high ropes course.
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​Requirements

​ •Must have completed the eighth grade and be at least 14 years of age but less than 21. ​
•Must be free of any criminal record. ​
•Must be in good academic standing with your school, maintaining at least a “C” average. ​​

How do I join?

​In order to become a member of the Red Oak Police Department Explorer Post #1132, you must: ​
•Attend 3 consecutive meetings. ​
•Submit an application for membership. ​
•Successfully complete a background investigation. ​
•Complete an oral interview with the Advisory staff. ​​

What is the oral interview?

​It’s not like a job interview. It’s an opportunity for the advisors and senior members of the post to sit down and talk with you and a parent. You will be asked why you are interested in joining the program and what you are hoping to gain through your participation in the Red Oak Police Department Explorer Program. ​​

Is the program about recruiting police officers?

​Not at all! Many members go on to rewarding careers in Law Enforcement; however, many more pursue other career interests. Police Explorers are given a real life behind the scenes look at Law Enforcement so that they can make an informed career decision later in life.
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For more information contact Lieutenant Jim Langham at JLangham@redoaktx.org or 469-218-7705.